Derricks Headlines Latest Group to Don Rush Blue
November 19, 2002 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Chicago Rush News Release
November 19, 2002 â The Chicago Rush significantly strengthened its defensive backfield this week by signing free agent defensive specialist Anthony Derricks to a two-year contract. In addition to Derricks, the Rush agreed to three-year contracts with linemen Curt Lessman and Sean Powell, while signing FB/LB Kevin Clemens, WR/DB Lonny Mitchell, QB Wes Pate and lineman Salem Simon to two-year deals.
Derricks (6-0, 180, Mississippi State) has been one of the league's top defensive specialists and kick returners since entering the AFL. Originally signed by Mike Hohensee's New England Sea Wolves in 2000, Derricks followed the team when it moved to Toronto in 2001. In his three years in the league he has led his team in tackles and interceptions each season, averaging 73 tackles and 5 interceptions per year. As a kick returner, Derricks is among the AFL's best, averaging 1,513 kick return yards and nearly five touchdowns per season during his career.
"Adding Anthony to our roster just adds another dangerous athlete to our team," said Rush head coach Mike Hohensee. "He was an outstanding player for me in New England and has become one of the top defensive specialists and kick returners in the league. He is a dynamic player who can take it the distance whenever he touches the ball â whether it is a kick return, interception or fumble recovery.
Lessman (6-3, 295, Northwest Missouri State) joins the Rush after an outstanding college career. Voted team captain his senior season, Lessman's teams went 32-6 during his three years on campus, winning the 1999 Division II National Championship. Upon graduation, Lessman signed a free agent contract with the Atlanta Falcons, but was released in late August.
Powell (6-1, 298, New Mexico State) signed with the Rush after being released by the Washington Redskins. Originally, signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in April 2000, he spent 2000 training camp with the Lions, and was then released prior to the regular season. He re-signed with the Lions at the end of the 2000 season and was allocated to the Amsterdam Admirals of NFL Europe.
Clemens (6-2, 285, Grand Valley State) returns to the AFL after spending time the previous two seasons with the Seattle Seahawks and Jacksonville Jaguars. Clemens began his AFL career in 1998 as a lineman with San Jose and Grand Rapids. In 1999 he was traded to New Jersey where he switched to FB/LB.
Mitchell (6-2, 200, San Diego State) finally will arrive in Chicago after originally signing with the Rush on December 13, 2000. Stints with the Minnesota Vikings, Baltimore Ravens and Scottish Claymores of NFL Europe prevented Mitchell from playing for the Rush during the past two seasons.
Pate (6-2, 228, Stephen F. Austin) was one of 16 quarterbacks drafted earlier this year when the Baltimore Ravens selected him in the seventh round of the 2002 NFL draft. After transferring from Louisiana Tech, he became a three-year starter for the Lumberjacks. During his career at SFA he completed 53 percent of his passes, throwing for 6,058 yards and 49 touchdowns in 29 games.
Simon (6-3, 283, Northwestern) spent four years as a defensive lineman in Evanston (1998-2001). He was a member of the Wildcats' 2000 Big Ten championship team that played Nebraska in the Alamo Bowl. In his career Simon played in 44 games, starting 25, recording 127 tackles and four sacks. After his graduation, Simon was signed by the Baltimore Ravens as a free agent, but was released during training camp.
The Rush 2003 training camp roster now features 30 players. AFL teams bring 37 players to training camp in January, with each team required to cut rosters to 24 players by opening day. The Rush kicks off its 2003 AFL season Sunday, February 2, at Allstate Arena against the Orlando Predators. Fans wishing to purchase season tickets, starting at $64, should call the Rush at (877) Rush-Tix (787-4849) or visit the team's Web site at www.chicagorush.com.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from November 19, 2002
- Rampage Re-Sign Team MVP - Grand Rapids Rampage
- Fury Hire Miller - Detroit Fury
- L.A. Avengers add two quarterbacks to roster - Los Angeles Avengers
- Derricks Headlines Latest Group to Don Rush Blue - Chicago Rush
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
